Based on the 250 Convertible, a full four inches was sectioned out of the body and front and rear springs were modified to achieve the low-slung look of this prototype sports car. A stylish, yet functional, hood scoop funneled air to a (then) novel 4-barrel carburetor, perched on a modified Thunderbolt eight that pumped out 185hp. Interest in this custom-bodied car lead to the production of the 1953 Caribbean.
You don't get the full effect of the work that went into restyling the Convertible shell to create the Pan American until you see it from this angle. The rear fenders were not stretched to accommodate the "continental" spare tire carrier, but the trunk lid was actually relocated forward. .
A cantilevered, non-removable, hardtop roof was applied to a 1953 Caribbean to create the Balboa. While the reverse-sloping back glass was held in a fixed position on the actual show car, the intent was that it could be opened - a feature that would not be accomplished by any automaker for several years. .
1933
03/05/2007 0:22
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